Tulipa Purple Doll

Dramatic, elegant and wonderfully distinctive, Tulipa 'Purple Doll' is a striking tulip combining the graceful form of a lily-flowered tulip with the characteristic green markings of the Viridiflora group. Its beautifully pointed, slightly reflexed petals are a sumptuous rich violet-purple, each boldly marked with a permanent deep green central flame that becomes increasingly striking as the flower opens.

An interesting variety with a story behind it, 'Purple Doll' arose as a sport of the much-loved pink tulip 'Doll's Minuet'. It retains the elegant shape and distinctive green markings of its parent but replaces the pink colouring with sophisticated shades of purple, creating a particularly unusual and eye-catching flower.

Opening in mid to late spring, the slender pointed petals spread gracefully in warm sunshine to reveal an elegant, almost star-like flower. The combination of purple and green gives 'Purple Doll' a wonderfully contemporary appearance, while its strong stems and long-lasting blooms make it equally valuable in the garden and for cutting.

Growing to around 40–45cm, it is perfect for mixed borders, dedicated tulip beds and patio containers. For a particularly striking display, combine it with white, pale lilac or soft pink tulips, or allow its rich colouring to contrast against fresh spring-green foliage.

A superb choice for anyone looking for something a little different from the traditional tulip.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Tulipa 'Purple Doll' bulbs in autumn, from September to December. Tulips particularly benefit from planting once the soil has cooled, and planting in October or November is ideal where possible. Avoid planting into frozen or waterlogged ground.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny or lightly shaded position with fertile, well-drained soil. 'Purple Doll' is excellent for borders, dedicated tulip beds and patio containers. A reasonably sheltered position will help protect its elegant flowers from strong winds.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 15–20cm (6–8 inches) deep, with the pointed end facing upwards.
• Spacing: Space bulbs approximately 10–15cm (4–6 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy or poorly drained soil with horticultural grit and organic matter. Tulip bulbs dislike sitting in wet soil, particularly during winter.
• Containers: In pots, use a good-quality, free-draining compost and make sure the container has adequate drainage holes.

Watering:
Water after planting if the soil or compost is dry. Bulbs planted in the ground will normally receive sufficient moisture from autumn and winter rainfall. Check containers regularly in spring and water when the compost begins to dry.

Aftercare Tips:

• Feed with a high-potash fertiliser as shoots develop in spring to help support flowering and the bulb for the following year.
• Remove faded flower heads after flowering to prevent energy being used to produce seed.
• Allow the foliage to yellow and die back naturally before removing it, as the leaves replenish the bulb.
• Where soil is heavy or summers are particularly wet, bulbs can be lifted once the foliage has died back and stored somewhere cool and dry until replanting in autumn.

Top Tip:
Plant 'Purple Doll' in groups of 10 or more bulbs to really appreciate its unusual combination of violet-purple and green. Pair with white or pale lilac tulips for an elegant display, or combine with lime-green foliage to emphasise its distinctive green flames.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

April – May (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
16–18" (40–45cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or light partial shade

Hardy Perennial Bulb

Excellent Cut Flower